Mobile Phone Policy

Barrenjoey’s Mobile Phone Policy

The School recognises that there are times when it is genuinely appropriate and useful for students to have access to a mobile phone or similar electronic device – for example, to contact parents in emergencies or to confirm or change a collection time after school. It is not necessary, nor acceptable, however, for mobile phones to be switched on or used during lessons.

A debate exists surrounding the usefulness of mobile technology in the learning environment versus the distractions they pose to the user when used inappropriately. Barrenjoey seeks to incorporate a balanced view for mobile phone use while engaged in school and school-based activities.

The following ‘common sense’ rules apply with respect to mobile phones:

Courtesy, consideration of and respect for others are paramount at all times.

They are brought to and kept at school, and used entirely at the owner’s risk. The School cannot accept any responsibility for theft, loss, damage or health effects (potential or actual) resulting from mobile phone use. Students and parents should recognise that mobile phones are a highly prized target for theft and accordingly, phones should always be stored in a safe and secure place when not in the classroom.

Parents and students are asked to respect the learning environment. Mobile phones must be switched off during lessons, private study times, during examinations and when they are stored in a locker. They should not be used in any manner or place that is disruptive to the normal routines of the School or to other people. This includes the sending and receiving of text messages or data.

When in a classroom or learning environment students are required to store their (switched off) mobile phone at the front of the room in a purpose made storage device to minimise disruption to the learning environment.

These guidelines may also refer to the use of mobile phones during field trips, detentions, excursions or other supervised activities.

The following consequences apply to policy breaches:

Confiscation of the mobile phone by the teacher for the remainder of the day. The student (and phone) is sent to the front office. The Front Office staff will secure the phone and the student’s name will be recorded. The phone/device will be signed out to the student at the end of the school day.

Should the student incur a second phone confiscation, the Deputy Principal will contact the parent.

More serious offences will be managed under the Barrenjoey Wellbeing Policy.